Events in Sydney Jan – Mar 2016

Often the start of a new year turns out to be a bit of a damp squib after all the party celebrations of Christmas and celebrating the New Year.

However, Sydney is a buzzing city during the whole year and has many thrilling and exciting events coordinated for the first quarter of 2016.

Whether your preferences are more on the arty side or you enjoy sports and outdoor events then the opening months have something special in store for you.

Classical music, opera, sailing, baseball, horse racing and live music are all waiting for you when you visit the city.

 

Symphony & Opera in the Domain

Jan 16th & Jan 23rd

Royal Botanic Gardens

 

Two completely free events and of the highest quality and class; just bring a rug, a picnic hamper, find a free space on the grass and enjoy the show.

This year the Sydney Symphony Orchestra has a special show planned as it is the 40th anniversary. The repertoire is a collection of all the music they have played at the event since it’s inception.

A little later in the month presented by Opera Australia is one of the most anticipated events of the whole Australian operatic calendar.

An evening of fine opera and ballet is in store by some of the best soloists and top dancers on the Australian scene.

 

Ferrython

Jan 26th

Circular Quay

 

Sydney Harbour enjoys a spectacular maritime treat as it displays it’s naval heritage in a superb free event.

Witness Sydney’s iconic ferries battle it out in Circular Quay for a celebration of Australia Day.

The boats compete from Circular Quay to Shark Island and finish the race in a climax at Sydney Harbour Bridge.

 

World Baseball Qualifiers

Feb 11th – 14th

Rooty Hill

 

This international showcase was first held in 2006. It gathers together the world’s greatest baseball stars competing for their home nations.

 

Team Australia will clash with New Zealand  and South Africa will face the Philippines in the qualifiers. Australia are aiming to go on their fourth trip to the WBC and take the next step for attaining the global crown.

 

Chipping Norton Stakes Day

Feb 27th

Warwick Farm

 

A day at the races is always a good day out and the action at the Liverpool City Council Chipping Norton stakes should be unmissable.

Relax with the whole family with your picnic on the beautiful spacious, tree-lined Popular Lawn.

Not only is the racing top notch but there is plenty of other activities going on as well; including face painting, a bouncy castle, petting zoo and a clown show.

 

Camden Show

Mar 12th

Camden

 

Spend a top weekend where the country visits the city, only one hour away from the CBD.

The show is designed to educate, enthuse and excite everything that is good from the countryside.

Camden Show attracts visitors from far and wide and is one of the biggest events in New South Wales.

 

Sydney International Rowing Regatta (SIRR)

March 14th – March 20th

Penrith

 

Held at the prestigious Penrith Sydney 2000 Olympic rowing venue, this week long regatta is Australia’s largest rowing event. Some of the world’s best rowers compete in over 100 events.

Not only is the SIRR Australia’s largest rowing event but it is also the premier rowing event in the country. The top events are;

  • Australian Open Rowing Championships
  • Australian Open Schools Rowing Championships
  • King’s and Queen’s Cup Interstate Regatta

Getting to any of these great venues couldn’t be easier with low cost bus and coach charter from Executive Coach Charter.

For more information and to make your booking, contact our friendly team today!

 

The Best Sydney Nightlife

Sydney is a vibrant and intoxicating city, there is just about every type of nightlife available in this metropolis of a city.

There is something for everybody, from the more cultural arts and classical venues to the hip and happening clubs and live music venues.

Add into this the cornucopia of restaurants and the melting pots of different types of wine bars and pubs, you really have to plan your evening’s entertainment.  

Sydney’s nightlife really is a broad canvas and extremely diverse. The different areas and streets offer a wide choice; The Rocks and King Street Wharf are more upmarket areas where patrons can sip a cocktail or two at the harbourside.  Oxford Street is the heart of Sydney’s gay area which buzzes with cafe’s, bars and clubs. It welcomes all visitors straight as well as gay.

 

Bars

 

  • Cafe Sydney

Offering one of the most spectacular views in Sydney overlooking Circular Quay, the Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Located on top of the historic Customs House it really is the place to go before that important dinner date or a trip to the opera.

The Cafe Sydney also offers top class dining should the view be too much to depart from.

  • Grasshopper

The Grasshopper bar would be equally home in one of the lanes in Melbourne, it is quaint and petit.

Quite difficult to locate down a small, dark laneway you might become a little nervous of your destination. Don’t fear the Grasshopper Bar is well worth the hassle. Like the bar, the cocktail list is quirky and adventurous.

A great place to chill or take a pre dinner aperitif.   

  • Opera Bar

Possibly the most famous of all Sydney’s bars, and unrivalled in it’s location. Under the wings of the famous Opera House you could not possibly find a more famous location worldwide.

 

Clubs

 

  • Home

Billed as a “Super Club”, Home is one of the most popular clubs in the city. It even has four different rooms playing a wide variety of music. Everything from techno, funk and the ever popular disco.

There are plenty of bars and places where you can chill out and take a break. If you are lucky enough to be invited or pay the fee there is a great VIP lounge.

Sydney is not one of Australia’s cheapest cities and Home definitely  reflects that.

  • Arq

Possibly the best equipped of all the clubs in Sydney with arguably the biggest and best sound system and lighting rigs. The club is spacious, two levels and is by far the best decked-out in the GLBT scene.

Music policy is house, dance and trance but with more commercial tunes downstairs.

Be prepared for boys without shirts and straight women enjoying a hassle free night.

  • Soho

In the centre of town and just a leisurely walk from Kings Cross Staion, this club has been a stalwart on the late night Sydney scene for a long time.

Also a two level establishment and offering a superb sound system and a futuristic lighting experience.

Soho is one of the most popular clubs in Sydney and has a loyal and faithful following. The chic and art deco inspired venue attracts a very arty and mixed crowd.

The atmosphere is relaxed but dress to impress as you are on display.

Whatever your preference or your favourite way to spend an evening then Sydney has it covered. Just dress appropriately for the venue and take enough money with you to last a very long evening.

Getting to any of these great venues is made easier with affordable group transportation services from Executive Coach Charter.

For more information and to book your Sydney coach or minibus hire, contact our friendly team today!

 

Events in Melbourne Jan – Mar 2016

Melbourne is an exciting city throughout the year and it continuously hosts events and festivals in the city and the surrounding areas.

Whether it is cultural, sporting or leisure orientated, Melbourne has it all and after the tremendous Christmas and New Year celebrations the events calendar to start 2016 is crammed full of things to do.

Australian Open

Jan 18th – 31st Jan

Melbourne Park

 

The Grand Slam opens in Australia 2016 as normal in Melbourne at the fantastic Melbourne Park.

The city is transformed into a tennis mad oasis for two whole weeks. So if you are a tennis fan or not there is no better place to be in Australia this summer.

All the big guns will be in attendance as Federer, Djokovic, Williams, Sharapova and all the stars of the future making it to Melbourne park.

An added attraction will be the final farewell from Lleyton Hewitt the hero of Australian tennis.

 

White Night Melbourne

Feb 20th – Feb 21st

City

 

One of the most unique festivals in the city, White Night transforms the city through exhibitions, film, concerts, food, music & dance, street performances all taking place in Melbourne’s streets and public places.  

Families of all ages can enjoy an urban adventure at Australia’s only all night celebration of culture and creativity. With so much on offer there is something for absolutely everything.  

 

Lonsdale Greek Festival

Feb 27th – Feb 28th

City  

 

The Lonsdale Street Greek Festival is possibly Australia’s biggest Greek street party. Bringing together a whole weekend of Greek culture to the iconic Greek Precinct.

The street feature two large stages of continuous live entertainment from music, dance and acting. And do not forget the fabulous food and wine that will be freshly cooked and served during the weekend.

 

2016 Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix

Mar 17th – Mar 21st

Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit

 

The Australian F1 Grand Prix rolls into town in March and if you have not already secured your tickets then it is advisable to do so soon.

Apart from the blistering excitement of the F1 action there is plenty to do on the days leading up to the event and on the actual day itself.

The on track events include V8 Supercars, Porsche Carrera Cup, Stunt Shows, RAAF jets and many more.

 

The Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival

Mar 7th – Mar 13th

City

 

The fashion festival presents the most stylish week-long entertainment on offer in Australia’s vibrant fashion world.

Including world-class runway shows featuring some of the world’s greatest and most famous models. On display will be the design of Australia’s most established and emerging designers. With state-of-the-art production, beauty workshops, industry seminars, forums, live entertainment and much more.

 

Melbourne Comedy Festival

Mar 23rd – Apr 17th

City

 

WHiteNight

The 30th annual comedy festival is held across the city during March and April. During this time a varied and diverse plethora of comedy is performed both at established venues and ad hoc areas.

There are over seventy individuals and acts all performing live with established or new comedy routines. To famous international comedians to new acts breaking onto the scene.

Melbourne is a city of mirth for over two weeks and there is something to suit all tastes and ages. You cannot help but join in on all the fun and games.

It is obvious to see that Melbourne is starting 2016 with a bang, with events and festivals as diverse as possible.   

There is something on offer for everybody’s taste and there are also some massive events that are of world importance. Just pick your favourites and secure your tickets.

Getting to any of these great venues has never been easier than with low cost bus and coach charter from Executive Coach Charter.
For more information and to make your booking, contact our friendly team today!

Events in Brisbane Jan – Mar 2016

Brisbane is a happening place to visit at any time of the year, from the international tennis tournament to the Brisbane Festival and beyond. There is literally something for everybody; live sport, art, music and many festivals.

All these buzzing events are not just confined to the heart of the city as the surrounding areas also play an important part in staging entertainment throughout the year. If you are considering a trip to visit Brisbane in the first quarter of 2016 here is what is in store for you.

 

Music by the Sea Festival

8th – 10th January

Sandgate Town Hall

 

This free music extravaganza is held out in Sandgate in the lovely seaside suburb. The festival program is extremely varied and there will be something to suit most tastes from; classical, jazz and folk  all performed by international or interstate artists.

 

Australia Day

26th January

Brisbane

 

Celebrate with family, friends and neighbours as one of the biggest days in the Australian calendar will produce fun and activities to suit all.

Brisbane is one of the hottest places in the whole of Australia that you can celebrate the national day. Fun and frolics abound for everybody both young  and old with many varied events dotted in and around the city.

Don’t bother making prior arrangements, just arrive and go with the flow. You cannot help but find the right event to celebrate this special occasion. But don’t forget the spectacular fireworks display at the South Bank.

 

Brisasia Festival

5th – 28th February

Brisbane

 

The BrisAsia festival is spread over three weeks in February and is a highlight in the city’s cultural calendar. The festival seeks to foster stronger connections between Brisbane and Asia with a themed program of free events.

The festival brings together local communities with demonstrating the variety of Asian cultures in music, cuisine, arts and crafts. It really is three weeks of variety and spice with an occasional glimpses of insight into another way of life.

 

Johnny Pav Live

3rd February

Market Street

 

A great chance to see one of Brisbane’s own son’s free live in concert. Johnny Pav is a singer / songwriter who is most famous for his 2012 album “European Sun”

A sort of indie-folk record but with high quality modern production, featuring traditional folk instruments together with synthesisers and programmed drums.

 

Frank Woodley

1st – 6th March

Powerhouse

 

If you have not been fortunate enough to catch a performance by Frank Woodley this is the perfect opportunity.

This guy is a natural, he is funny just standing there and humour pours out of his body. His style is quirky and in a way nonsensical but that is his beauty, whether he is a clown, actor, acrobat or just a plain comedian you can’t help but chuckle.  

 

World Science Festival

9th – 13th March   

City

 

The World Science Festival is coming to Brisbane at the beginning of March and will bring some of the world’s greatest scientists and thought leaders to the city.

It will showcase local scientists and performers from around the Asia Pacific region with also incorporating the best ideas from previous New York events.

 

CMC Music Awards

10th March

Performing Arts Centre

 

CMC

If country music is your thing then the CMC Music Awards is a must see event. Jason Aldean and Kelsea Ballerini are both live this year performing and also to help host the event. 

The awards celebrate the music and artists who are most loved by their fans in Australia.

The event will be broadcasted live on Foxtel’s Country Music Channel, and regular Foxtel compare Morgan Evans will be in charge of events during the evening.

Getting to and from any of these great events is made easier with low cost bus and mini bus charter from Executive Coach Charter.

For more information and to make your booking, contact our friendly team today!

 

The Best Wineries in Brisbane

The Gold Coast has some of the best and most interesting wineries on Australia’s East coast and some of them are in and around Brisbane.

Queensland biggest wine region is the Granite Belt roughly three and a half hours south-west from Brisbane. Brisbane is a great place to be based for wine tours of the region and sample some of the finest wines produced in the area.

 

Ballandean Estate

Sundown Road, Ballandean

 

One of the elder statesmen of the region, Ballandean Estate has been growing grapes and making wine since 1932.

The rich volcanic soils, cool climate and high altitude provide perfect conditions to create award winning wines that are a true reflection of the Granite Belt.

Ballandean produces over twenty wines from exciting sweet whites to robust reds, fortified and sparkling wines. Some of their top produce is the 2012 Generation 3 Shiraz Cabernet, the 2014 Opera Block Chardonnay and the 2013 Malbec Jacquez.

A visit to the estate must include a visit to the Ballandean Estate Cellar Door which is rustic in design and very spacious. One of it’s main features is the magnificent German Beer Barrels.  These iconic 150 year old barrels have taken pride of place since 1971 and are now used for housing aged Port and Muscat.

The Gallery provides a vast array of foods created by local food artisans and on display is an extensive range of Italian hand blown Decanters.  

 

Rumbalara Estate

Fletcher Road, Ballandean

 

They have been growing grapes on the Rumbalara Estate since 1928. The locality was named after Thomas Fletcher who was the first commercial grape grower in the Granite Belt district. In 1974 the property was bought by Bob and Una Gray and grafted new vines onto the existing Rostocks classic vines. The winery has been in the hands of Mike and Bobbi Cragg in 2002.

The Big Five wines that they produce at Rumbalara are; The Buffalo – Chardonnay, The Leopard – Cabernet Sauvignon / Shiraz, The Rhino – Sweet White, The Lion – Shiraz Merlot / Cabernet Sauvignon and The Elephant – Sauvignon Blanc / Semillion. There are also premium reds, whites and fortified wines for the more discerning palates.

The Cellar Door has been enlarged and redecorated to accommodate more people and a fireplace has been installed to warm the space and provide an inviting ambience.

 

Summit Estate

Granite Belt Drive, Thulimbah

 

rose-wine-types

Established in 1997 by a group of wine lovers, Summit Estate Wines offer award winning wines of elegance and complexity. The wines are produced on classic European varieties. The estate is also focused on the highly successful Strange Bird experience that is offered by many Stanthorpe wineries.

Their wines include some robust reds; Alto Blend, Pinot Noir, Monastrell Cabernet and even a Sparkling Red. The Whites include a classic Chardonnay, Verdelho a sweet Moscato and a Sparkling Brut. There is also a semi sweet Emily Rose which is most refreshing.

Summit Estate encourage visitors to visit their Cellar Door. Their sit down wine tastings are renowned on the Granite Belt and their wine education sessions provide customers with a personalised winery experience.

The Brisbane region, particularly the Granite Belt, is a spectacular area to visit if you love your wine. The scenery is picturesque and some of the wine cellar experiences are unique and welcoming. Based in Brisbane you will be perfectly placed to visit all these mouth watering wineries.

Getting to any of these great locations is made easier with low cost bus and coach charter from Executive Coach Charter.

For more information and to make your booking, contact our friendly team today!

 

 

Sydney Shopping Venues

Sydney has a reputation as a major cosmopolitan city and probably the most chic in Australia. Indeed it’s fame exceeds Australia and Sydney it is a global player in the terms of fashion and entertainment.   

The city continues to attract major world fashion brands making the city centre an unsurpassed shopping experience. The are malls, shopping centres, outdoor markets and boutiques splattered all over the city just waiting to tempt you with their wares.

 

PITT STREET MALL

City Centre

 

Pitt Street Mall is located in the very heart of Sydney in the Central Business District and is Australia’s busiest and most cosmopolitan shopping precinct, boasting retail centres Myer, David Jones, Glasshouse, Sydney Arcade, Mid City Shopping Centre and the Strand Arcade.

It comprises of more than 600 speciality stores just within two blocks of the CBD. There is something for everybody’s taste be it fashion, electrical, art, furniture ….the list is endless.

WESTFIELD

City Centre

 

Located beneath the Sydney Tower right in the heart of the CBD is the Westfield Centre formerly Westfield Centrepoint.It is very much an upscale shopping centre and is operated by the Scentre Group.

Locals and tourists alike love shopping at the Westfield Sydney, it hosts over 250 fashion, lifestyle and food outlets. It offers a mix of top Australian designers alongside international brands all in one building over four floors. It is a convenient one location outlet offering some of the best shopping and dining in the city.

 

QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING

City Centre

 

The Queen Victoria Building, now affectionately known as the QVB was built in 1898 replacing the original Sydney markets that previously occupied the site. As the name suggests it was originally built as a monument to the long reigning monarch.

Originally, a concert hall, coffee shops, offices, showrooms, warehouses and a wide variety of tradespeople, such as tailors, mercers, hairdressers and florists, were accommodated and the QVB occupies an entire city block.

The shopping is upmarket, diverse and covers all the major fashion brands both internationally and Australian.

 

THE STRAND ARCADE

City Centre

 

Located in the CBD between Pitt Street and George Street the Strand Arcade is another wonderful example of Victorian architecture. It is the epicentre of style and design and named after London’s famous shopping street.

The Strand houses many of Australia’s best designer labels, jewellers, gift shops and has many restaurants, coffee shops and beauty salons.

The Strand remains a majestic beauty in the middle of the city’s CBD. It houses the Nut Shop, Elie’s leather Repair, John Azzi and Strand Hatters. Today the centre is a unique mix of Australian designer fashion and speciality stores for sophisticated clientele.

 

WORLD SQUARE

City Centre

 

shop

The World Square occupies three levels of an entire city block in the CBD. There are flagship stores for the world famous designer brands including; Armani Exchange, Burberry, Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Versace and even more.

It is high end shopping, stylish and expensive. It also houses entertainment and cultural activities to complement it’s thriving business community. World Square is home to more than 90 retailers and has a lively restaurant and lifestyle precinct.

World Square is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars and small fashionable eateries that make it a perfect meeting place.

Getting to any of these great shopping centres when travelling in a group is made easier with low-cost mini bus and coach charter from Executive Coach Charter. 

For more information and to make your booking, contact our friendly team today!

 

THE BEST GOLF VENUES IN THE BRISBANE AREA

If you are crazy about golf and all you can think about is; holes in one, birdies and chipping out of bunkers to inches from the pin then Queensland is the place for you.

Queensland has a plethora of world-class golf courses and hosts some of the best tournaments located in some of the most unique locations. There are three world-class courses on the Gold Coast, one being the home to the Volvik RACV Ladies Masters and the Australian PGA Championship.  

The courses can take you to some of Australia’s best and varied countryside. The Whitsundays on Dent Island is the only island-based championship golf course in Australia. If you would like to visit a more tropical region to sample the reefs and rainforests then North Queensland’s courses of Port Douglas, Cairns and Palm Cove are ideal. And the Sunshine Coast can offer Pelican Waters a course designed by Greg Norman.

 

BRISBANE COURSES:

 

RIVERLAKES GOLF COURSE

One of South East Queensland’s most picturesque and difficult courses. Riverlakes is one of the newest Championship Standard being completed in 1999.

It is surrounded by the Logan River and has the magnificent California Creek flowing through it feeding a series of large ponds that are dotted all over the course. With a combination of Bermuda Grass Greens; fairways and rough comprising Wintergreen Bermuda Grass the course maintains the highest standards.

 

THE BRISBANE GOLF CLUB

The Brisbane Golf Club is one of the longest established golf institutions in Australia. Established in 1896  the founding members set out to build an exceptional course together with the traditions and culture that make an unparalleled club.   

The clubhouse is heritage-listed and overlooks an 18 hole championship course. Ranked amongst the top 100 courses in Australia, the Brisbane Golf Club is the only

golf course in Australia to have a champion’s green putting surface installed on over 700 golf courses in the USA.  

 

KEPERRA COUNTRY GOLF CLUB

Excellently located only a twenty minute drive from the CBD of Brisbane. It is set in Queensland’s rainforest showcasing hundreds of different types of trees and scores of bird species make this course one of the most picturesque in the region.

Keperra is more than a fantastic natural space, it is also a very special golf course that provides 27 holes that are arranged in different combinations to provide three very distinct courses to test every level of ability.

Natural fairways with Bermuda or Tifdwarf greens have been made out of the local vegetation and water obstacles in the rainforest. So that each course require good length, accuracy and a steady hand on the greens.  

 

INDOOROOPILLY GOLF CLUB

Indooroopilly

The club was established in 1940 Indooroopilly has been enjoying golf for nearly 75 years. It is one of the closest courses to the centre of Brisbane being just 10km away.

The location is picturesque being right on a bend of the Brisbane River the complex is quite unique.

Indooroopilly incorporates 36 championship holes of golf. There is a separate driving range and practise putting green next to the clubhouse. Allowing golfers to loosen up and practise before tee off time.

The club also hosts a number of social events such as weddings, banquets and is a meeting venue. Visiting golfers can enjoy the courses every day apart from Saturday which is reserved for members. However, the West Course is strictly for members only.

Christmas Holiday Events in Sydney 2015

The Christmas holiday period and New Year in Sydney are widely celebrated and there are numerous festive activities taking place all over the city. Apart from the climax of the Sydney Harbour world famous New Year Fireworks celebration there are many events leading up to the turn of the year.

Christmas 2015 in Sydney should be the leading event held in the city. It all starts with the world famous Christmas concerts with an exciting and massive night of music spread over numerous venues including. Martin Place, Surrey, Alexandria and Hyde Park.

Apart from the annual traditional events there is also some fun stuff that is taking place.

 

Big Santa Hunt:

Nine Santas are busing dashing around Darling Harbour each with a letter. If you can locate the mad Santas and retrieve the letters and spell a word then a free Christmas present is up for grabs.

 

Santa Fest – Darling Harbour

Even more of the daring Santas at large but this time on stilts. All our merry St. Nicholas’s will be perched above the waters of Darling Harbour in an attempt not to fall into the turbulent water.

 

Santa Fest Water Spectacular – Cockle Bay Wharf

Firstly there is a grand parade then Santa spectacularly arrives on a water sleigh, which is actually a vintage 1930’s boat. After follows fun and frollocks including a fireworks display and the lighting of the giant Christmas Tree at the Convention Center.

 

Music and Fireworks

A weekly Saturday night firework display is held at Cockle Bay from 24th November to the 22nd December and Christmas Eve.

This precedes the big firework display to end all the Santa activity and to welcome in Christmas day. Before the illuminations take place there will carol singing around the tree to add that Christmas flavour.

Try taking a trip to Sydney Town Hall over the festive period as there are some spectacular projections taking place.

On Boxing day the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race begins. The race finishes in Tasmania on New Years Eve 2016.

Leading up to Christmas a must see event is the St Mary’s Cathedral play with spectacular 3D projections and sound. Nightly before the illuminations, choirs from all over Sydney sing carols.

The projections do not stop at Hyde Park, take a walk down to Martin Place to see some of the most iconic buildings in Sydney come to life in colour and music.  

For tourists and locals alike one of the best ways of spending Christmas Day is to visit Bondi Beach. But be prepared to share the occasion with thousands of other people. For those who are not residents of Australia it will come as a bit of a surprise to be lounging on the beach rather than huddled in a cosy house somewhere. But the fun will be great, with plenty of Santa hats blending in with sunburnt bodies.

 

New Year’s Eve

crm01Sydney is one of the first cities to welcome in the New Year in the world and likes to show off that fact in spectacular fashion.

The most popular activity is to watch the amazing firework display over Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge a scene that millions of people worldwide witness on TV.

The evening’s festivities take place at 6pm followed by a music and lighting display on the pylons of the bridge. Then there is a flotilla in the harbour of over 60 boats and they too have their own individual lighting. The evening culminates in the famous 12 minute firework extravaganza.

If the bridge area is too crowded then there are numerous other events taking place across the city. Darling Harbour is a very popular destination with live music events and plenty of outdoor drinking and eating stalls set up for the evening.

Wherever you decide to spend your Christmas and New Year in Sydney there is a vast array of venues and events to enjoy and spend your time.

When the time comes to organise your Christmas event then Sydney Executive Coach Charter are ready to assist with the logistics.

For great rates on mini bus and coach hire, contact our friendly team today!

Excursions in Brisbane

Top Day Excursions in Brisbane

The Brisbane area is ideally suited for day trip excursions or coach tours. It has the beautiful Gold Coast to the east and the wineries and mountains to the north and south. It is Australia’s third largest city and some say the most picturesque.

 

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

 

KoalaLocated less than an hours drive from the Gold Coast is one of the world’s top ten zoo’s. Not only does it house 130 cute Koala’s but it is also a sanctuary for some of Australia’s iconic marsupials and animals. Kangaroos, Wombats, Dingos, Snakes and even Crocodiles all live together in beautiful surroundings all happy in their free environment. There is even an opportunity to feed Tasmanian Devils for those that are not feint hearted.

The sanctuary is open every day of the year including Christmas Day so holiday excursions are ideal to brighten up a dull school holiday or for a special birthday treat.

A real showstopper is the outdoor cinema that show  films that the whole family can enjoy and to relax  in a unique atmosphere.

 

Mount Coot-Tha Botanics Gardens

 

If it is your desire to see the world’s biggest collection of Australian rainforest trees then Mount Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens is definitely the place to visit.

Situated less than 10km from the centre of Brisbane the Botanic Gardens are spread out majestically over 50 hectares. There are many themed gardens as well as natural horticulture for the most avid lover of gardens to enjoy.

The gardens are open daily but times do change depending what time of year but it must be noted that dogs are not permitted at any time.

There are minibus tours around the gardens as well as dedicated walks to guide the visitor through the native and exotic plant collections. The areas are split up into the Arid Zone and the Cactus Zone and there are designated places such as: Bonsai, Ferns, Fragrant Plants, the Freedom Wall, Japanese Garden, Lagoon and Bamboo Grove, Rainforests and also a Tropical Display Zone.

The Mount Coot-Tha Botanic Gardens is certainly one of the best jewels in the whole of Australia not just the Gold Coast, a must see when visiting this amazing part of the world.

 

The South Bank

 

bankOriginally created for the World Expo in 1988 the South Bank area has developed into one of Brisbane’s most happening places. It is now home to restaurants, plazas and parklands and the riverside venue is a big hit for locals and tourists alike.

Located in the heart of the city just minutes walk from the central business district the South Bank is part of the ticking heart of Brisbane.

The purpose built lagoon is one of the favourite parts of the South Bank where hot city goers can cool down with a refreshing swim and take a break from stressful sightseeing.

During your stay in Brisbane it is hard not to visit the South Bank, but if you have not already penciled it in on your tour itinerary then now is the time to do so.

 

Story Bridge Adventure Climb

 

If you are of a nervous disposition or scared of heights then this attraction is probably not one for you. The bridge was constructed in Australia’s Great Depression in the 1930’s and is one of the iconic statements of Brisbane.

This famous landmark spans the Brisbane River and is 80m above the turbulent flowing waters, by ascending it’s steel structure you will gain an uninterrupted view of the whole of the city. Obviously it is in central Brisbane just down Main Street at Kangeroo Point.

The restrictions for climbing the bridge are not many, as long as you are over ten years of age and of fairly good physical health then the 2hr climb should be an enjoyable experience. Considering that there are no more than five bridge climbs allowed in the world it is an opportunity that should not be turned down lightly.

From the top the spectacular scenic and panoramic views are breathtaking, not only does the city of Brisbane open up before your eyes but to the east you can clearly see Moreton Bay and to the west the green and lush hills of the Scenic Rim span out to the horizon.

If you like the sound of any of the areas shown above, then why not get your coach trip organised with Executive Coach Charter?

When you demand the best service at the lowest prices, there is only one sensible option!

Conference Room

4 Brilliant Conference Facilities in Brisbane

Brisbane offers some of the best conference facilities on the Gold Coast and is an ideal location for your company’s A.G.M or shareholders meeting. Some of the locations are ideally serviced by delegates attending by coach or bus as the facilities are geared up to welcome multiple arrivals.

 

Stamford Plaza Brisbane

 

A truly impressive conference venue for every type of business meeting you could wish for.

Centrally located the Stamford Plaza offers a staggering 8 conference rooms all capable of handling a simple boardroom set up or a large 320 delegate forum.

The location gives the added attraction of all that Brisbane can offer in terms of accommodation, restaurants and shopping.

Stamford Plaza also offers a 300m ballroom for after conference entertaining and there are numerous outdoor terraces and areas that can offer respite for the weary delegate.

 

Walkabout Creek Function Centre


A short 12km drive out of the city of Brisbane can be found the impressive Walkabout Creek Function Centre.

The location is idyllic and very unique and is guaranteed to bring the wow factor to any conference or meeting. Walkabout Creek is nestled amid the D’Aguilar National Park adjacent to the South Queensland Wildlife Center. Whether attending a meeting or not Walkabout Creek is definitely worth a visit.

There are two conference rooms to select from both high in the rainforest tree tops. They are both naturally lit and provide a back to nature environment for the delegates. The Banksia can accommodate up to 180 delegates whilst the Ferntree is available for conferences up to 70 attendees.

Walkabout Creek also offers two large outdoor amphitheaters to bring a dramatic effect to any meeting or conference.

 

The Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre

 

Great_Hall_Audio_Visual,_Brisbane_Convention_&_Exhibition_CentreThe BCEC is the largest and most prestigious convention and exhibition centre in Brisbane.

Situated in the south of the city the exhibition centre is located around the Grey Street and Merivale Street block. It is serviced by South Brisbane train station but it is only a ten minute walk to central Brisbane.

It is close to all the South Bank of Brisbane can offer from the swanky riverside restaurants to the swimming beach and the impressive Gallery of Modern Art.

The BCEC can offer absolutely everything a modern day conference centre could possibly provide with a total of 44 meeting rooms that can accommodate anything from 8 delegates to a 8000 concert. There is a plethora of coffee venues and restaurants to choose from to suit any taste.

 

Lightspace

 

Lightspace is a conference centre with a difference. Situated in the hub of the fashionable Creative District in the Fortitude Valley this meeting / exhibition centre provides a modern and hip aspect to any event. It can be found a short walk from the Emporium and the Gassworks and only minutes away from the city centre by taxi.

Ideal for meetings, exhibitions, functions and even weddings this boutique venue is a converted warehouse and offers lofty designer spaces and even a Japanese inspired terrace.

The main space is named Lightspace 1 and can cater for up to 250 people in a formal meeting set up or 500 people for a reception or cocktail party. There is an adjoining lounge bar and the terrace to offer food breaks or breakout meetings.

This is a meeting venue with a difference and will bring a unique touch and feeling to your big day or function.

Take the stress out of organising your next corporate or conference event. Executive Coach Charter have a range of mini buses and coaches that are ideal for all your group transport requirements.

For a great price, combined with personalised service contact our friendly team today!